Santiago-7-day-itinerary

Santiago, Chile 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) and take a taxi or shuttle bus to your accommodation in the city center.
  • Afternoon: Visit Plaza de Armas, the main square of Santiago, surrounded by historic buildings like the Cathedral and the National History Museum. Take a stroll through the adjacent streets to get a feel for the city.
  • Evening: Head to Barrio Bellavista, a trendy neighborhood filled with restaurants, bars, and street art. Try Restaurante 040 for dinner, serving modern Chilean cuisine.

Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Orly, a comfortable hotel in the heart of Santiago.

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

  • Morning: Visit the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, showcasing an impressive collection of Chilean and international art.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Mercado Central, a bustling marketplace offering fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Try some local street food for lunch.
  • Evening: Enjoy a performance at the Teatro Municipal, featuring opera, ballet, or concerts.

Tip: Book tickets in advance for cultural events to avoid sold-out shows.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

  • Morning: Take a cable car ride to the top of San Cristóbal Hill, offering panoramic views of the city. Visit the adjacent Zoologico Nacional.
  • Afternoon: Relax in the beautiful Parque Forestal, a tranquil oasis amidst the urban landscape.
  • Evening: Dine at Boragó, serving contemporary Chilean cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.

Transportation: Use the efficient metro system (Lines 1, 2, or 5) to get around the city.

Day 4: Wine Country

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the nearby Maipo Valley, one of Chile’s premier wine regions. Visit Viña Undurraga for a wine tour and tasting.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at Restaurante Viña Maipo, serving traditional Chilean dishes paired with local wines.
  • Evening: Return to Santiago and enjoy dinner at Azul Profundo, offering seafood specialties.

Tip: Book wine tours in advance, especially during peak season (March to November).

Day 5: Modern Santiago

  • Morning: Explore the trendy neighborhood of Las Condes, known for its upscale shopping centers, restaurants, and bars.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Costanera Center, a modern mall with stunning views of the Andes Mountains. Take a stroll along the adjacent Parque Bicentenario.
  • Evening: Dine at Mestiza, serving innovative fusion cuisine.

Accommodation: Stay at Hotel CasaSur, a stylish boutique hotel in Las Condes.

Day 6: Day Trip to Valparaíso

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the colorful coastal city of Valparaíso, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (approximately 1.5 hours by car or bus).
  • Afternoon: Explore the city’s vibrant streets, filled with street art, quirky shops, and seafood restaurants.
  • Evening: Return to Santiago and enjoy dinner at Eladio, serving traditional Chilean cuisine.

Tip: Be prepared for steep hills and staircases in Valparaíso.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
  • Afternoon: Depart for the airport and head back home.

Things to Know

  • Santiago is a relatively safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • The Chilean peso (CLP) is the local currency; credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Spanish is the official language, but many locals speak some English.
  • Be prepared for altitude sickness if you plan to visit nearby mountains or valleys.

Additional Tips

  • Book accommodations and restaurants in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Consider purchasing a Bip! Card, a rechargeable transportation card for easy travel on public transport.
  • Don’t forget to try some delicious Chilean pastries and coffee at a local café!

Enjoy your trip to Santiago, Chile!